Sigma's extreme bokeh monster — the 105mm f/1.4 Art, nicknamed 'Bokeh Master' for its rendering.
The Sigma 105mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art, nicknamed the 'Bokeh Master', was released in 2018 as the fastest 105mm autofocus lens in history. The extraordinary f/1.4 aperture at 105mm produces the shallowest depth of field available in any autofocus portrait lens — the bokeh rendering is in a class of its own, creating almost three-dimensional subject isolation.
Optical performance is outstanding despite the extreme specification. Sharpness is excellent from f/1.4, which is remarkable for such a fast telephoto. The 105mm focal length combined with f/1.4 creates razor-thin depth of field that produces bokeh unlike anything else. Chromatic aberration and coma are exceptionally well-controlled by the Art line optical design.
Available in Canon EF, Nikon F, and Sony A mounts. Filter thread is 105mm — very large and expensive. Weight is approximately 1,645 grams — extremely heavy for a prime lens, earning it the additional nickname 'the brick'. Build quality is excellent with TSC construction and brass bayonet mount. No weather sealing or stabilisation.
Available on the used market at significant discounts from new. Check AF accuracy — critical at f/1.4 on a 105mm lens. The weight makes extended handheld use challenging. This is a specialist tool for photographers who want the ultimate in bokeh rendering — not a casual portrait lens. Nothing else delivers this combination of focal length, speed, and optical quality.